Save to Pinterest A hearty, comforting casserole packed with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, beans, and melty cheese, all baked in a zesty Tex-Mex tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and always satisfies hunger cravings with bold flavor.
I first made this Tex-Mex casserole for a cozy family dinner, and it quickly became a regular request. The combination of cheese, spices, and rice reminds me of my favorite childhood comfort foods, but with a fun southwest twist.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Black beans: 1 can (15 oz/425 g), drained and rinsed
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup (200 g), uncooked
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 can (14 oz/400 g), undrained
- Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g), divided
- Chili powder: 2 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp (or to taste)
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Chopped, for garnish
- Sliced jalapeños (optional): For garnish
- Sour cream (optional): For serving
Instructions
- Prepare oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish.
- Brown the beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Cook vegetables:
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add spices:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine rice and liquids:
- Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Mix in beans and cheese:
- Fold in black beans and 1 cup (115 g) of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer to casserole dish:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake covered:
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Add remaining cheese and bake:
- Remove foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and rice is tender.
- Rest and serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream as desired.
Save to Pinterest My kids always race to the dinner table when they know this casserole is coming out of the oven. Sharing it family-style, with plenty of garnishes, makes weekday meals feel like a special occasion.
Recipe Variations
Try swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adding corn kernels or green onions creates extra texture, and you can change up the cheese to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect alongside crisp green salad, and tortilla chips make a delicious crunchy side. Top with sour cream or salsa for even more flavor.
Nutrition & Storage
Each serving provides roughly 420 calories, 17 g fat, 41 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze portions for later.
Save to Pinterest This Tex-Mex beef & rice casserole delivers cheesy comfort and bold flavor in every bite. Enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter variation without sacrificing flavor.
- → Is this dish naturally gluten-free?
It is gluten-free when using certified gluten-free broth and tomato sauce. Always check labels to be sure.
- → What type of cheese pairs best in this bake?
Cheddar cheese is traditional here, but Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blends add extra creaminess and flavor.
- → Can I add vegetables for more texture?
Absolutely. Corn kernels, chopped green onions, or diced jalapeños enhance texture and brightness.
- → How should I serve this casserole?
Serve warm with optional garnishes like sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños. It pairs nicely with tortilla chips or a fresh salad.